Administrative Reports
Ben Horsley, Director of Communications, gave a report on parent engagement to the board.
Chris Lewis, Director of Accounting, gave a report on a change to state retirement accounting.
The board convened into an executive session.
Board Meeting
Reverence – Granger Elementary 6th Grade Chorus
Consent Items
Purchase
Contracts
School LAND Trust Amendments
Information Items
Brent Severe, Director of Granite Education Foundation, gave a report on Granite Education Foundation’s holiday assistance programs.
Judy Peterson, Director of College & Career Readiness, presented a Comprehensive Guidance update to the board.
Action Item
The Board approved a second reading of the 2016-17 Secondary Student Fee Schedule.
I read a Salt Lake Tribune article today regarding Salt Lake School District considering later start times for high school students. This is such a wonderful idea that has been supported by research. It has been proven that in this stage of development due to biological reasons , teenagers have a very difficult time falling asleep early. This leaves tired, groggy, and unable to focus, much less learn at such an early hour. Both of my children are in high school and it is a daily struggle. My 16 year old son has his lunch break at 10:30 am because his day starts so early.
All that to say, I urge Granite School District to also consider changing secondary start times. I truly believe it is in the best interest of our children.
Thank you
This issue has indeed been studied in Granite School District. While there are many positives to later start times, there are also many drawbacks to consider. For instance, extracurricular activities would be pushed back, often late into the evening. Some districts that have implemented late start times have seen a reduction of students participating in extracurriculars. Additionally, one of the biggest obstacles is bus schedules. Later start times would require a large increase of buses due to high schools, junior highs, and elementary schools starting at similar times, whereas the current schedule allows for a single bus to run multiple routes. Such a change is estimated to cost millions of dollars.
In any case, please be sure to voice your opinion to your school board member. Later start times would ultimately be approved by the board of education.